Grand Gatherings Question?

[Stimpy]

Is there any way we can plan a Grand Gathering for our group if we are willing to pay for 1 extra person? We have 9 people going in November, but 2 of them are under 3 yrs old, so according to Disney, they don't "count". Is it possible to say that we are willing to pay for another person so we have enough for the Grand Gathering? I asked this when the Grand Gatherings first started (we had 8 people, but 1 was infant at the time) and was told no. I was just wondering if this had changed. Thanks!

[InstImpres]

We did it a year ago. Just put tell them what you are doing and they will enter one of the under threes as a child.

Happy travels
Sandy

[4greatboys]

Are either of the kids close to 3? If so just say they are 3 then you will have to pay for them.
You could also see if anyone else is going around your time and include them in your GG, You dont have to pay for their part, they can call disney and pay for their own. Then you could have a nice GG and meet some new friends.

[Stimpy]

Thanks for the replies! I'll have to look further into this, see if the family is interested etc. My DD will be 2 1/2 yrs old so maybe we can "use" her LOL

This is certainly a first for me...usually I'm trying to find out how much "free" stuff the UNDER 3 children get. Now I'll actually trying to PAY for one that should be free :bugeyed:

[4greatboys]

LOL.

I can highly recommend the Magical Voyage Fireworks Cruise. We did it in Oct and it was a lot of fun. First you have a dessert reception at the Contemporary with Capt Hook and Mr Smee. Then they split up the groups into 2 boats. We were Capt Hooks group (though they dont actually go on the cruise with you). Once out on the Seven Seas Lagoon the pirate on board tells jokes and ask questions that you can win small prizes for. Then we watched the EWR and then snagged a good spot for Wishes. Once you make it back to the dock Peter Pan is waiting for you and you have time for pics. So much fun!

[Stimpy]

That sounds really cool!

How far in advance can you reserve a Grand Gathering? Would I call MS or do I have to go through someone else? Thanks again!!

[4greatboys]

They can be sch 90 days out. You need to call the GG dept for them to set it up. Last Oct when we did it I went through group because so many friends were going at the same time I did a leisure group. We got a discount on our rooms for booking 10 and my service manager made our ps ressies for us.

Here is some info on the GG from the Disney website:

*International Dinner and IllumiNations Dessert Reception*

Indulge yourself in Epcot® with international delights and tantalizing cuisine from around the world. Share the magic of live entertainment that's sure to please your whole gathering. Then enjoy a delicious dessert buffet along with VIP viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. Theme park admission is required.

Price:
Adults and Juniors - $59.99, Children (ages 3-9) - $24.99 (available 90 days prior)


*Safari Celebration Dinner*

Set off on safari in Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Enjoy a spectacular VIP journey across the rolling savanna. Then dine family-style on an African influenced cuisine at the Tusker House Restaurant with a side of live entertainment, characters and up close animal encounters. Theme park admission is required.

Price:
Adults and Juniors - $59.99, Children (ages 3-9) - $24.99 (available 90 days prior)

*Good Morning Gathering*

Begin your day with a Magic Kingdom® morning filled with special songs and fun for kids of all ages. Here, classic Disney Characters join you for breakfast and fun at Tony's Town Square Restaurant. You'll even get some one-on-one time for your group with Mickey himself. Theme park admission is required.

Price:
Adults and Juniors - $26.99, Children (ages 3-9) - $13.99 (available 90 days prior)


*Magical Fireworks Voyage*

Cast off on a moonlit voyage around the Magic Kingdom® Seven Seas lagoon, which provides the perfect viewing location for the Electrical Water Pageant and the all new Disney Wishes: A Magical Gathering of Disney Dreams. Your evening will begin with a mouth-watering array of sumptuous cookies and desserts. You'll then enjoy your moonlit voyage and have fun with Disney trivia and tales of pirates and Peter Pan along the way. Your evening will end with a special Disney meet and greet with Peter himself. Available on a seasonal basis.

Price:
Adults and Juniors - $34.99, Children (ages 3-9) - $19.99 (available 90 days prior)